I am asking First Bus to work with Hampshire County Council and keep the number 20 bus service between Fareham and Wickham.
To many, especially in Knowle and elsewhere along the route, the no.20 bus plays an important role in the community. It helps people who don’t drive, whether because of age, health, or other reasons, get to the doctor, visit family, do their shopping, and get to work or college.
Over 90% of Hampshire's bus services are operated commercially by private companies but for some routes, HCC provides financial support for a small number of the remaining routes, where budget allows. I understand Hampshire County Council faces tough budget decisions, and that's why I'm asking HCC to work with Stagecoach and avoid stopping this service, which will make it harder for some people to get around and access the things they need.
With new homes being built at Welborne Garden Village and more people moving to our area, good public transport is more important than ever. We should be looking for ways to support and improve local bus services, not reduce them.
I’m asking First Bus to listen to local voices, rethink this decision, and work with us to find solutions that keep our communities connected. Affordable and reliable transport matters, and I will keep fighting for it on your behalf.
I have also written to Stagecoach, who are in charge of the number 69 bus asking them to keep this important service in place. Local buses are vital for so many people and I will continue to campaign that they stay on the route.
Suella